Pune: The family of 14-year-old Rida Shaikh, who died of swine flu inPune on Monday, said on Tuesday that it would initiate legalproceedings against Jehangir Hospital, where she was treated.

The family's lawyer, Asif Lampwala, alleged that the girl's death wasa case of "gross negligence." The family would claim "huge sums indamages" and the money would be given to charity.

The girl's aunt, Ayesha Shaikh, said:

"Rida was admitted to Jehangir Hospital on July 26 after midnight asshe had very high fever and was suffering from breathlessness.Initially, we were told that it was pneumonia. On July 27 and 28, theytold us she was suffering from acute respiratory distress syndrome. Onthe 29th, the hospital suspected swine flu and sent her samples toRuby Hall Clinic for testing. The report, which was negative, came inan hour.

"It was only on the 31st that her samples were sent to the NationalInstitute of Virology, which tested her positive for swine flu. Shewas administered Tamiflu. However, by that time, she was very criticaland could not be moved to Naidu Hospital [which, along with AundhHospital, treats swine flu cases in the city]. Her situation worsenedand she died on August 3."